The lived experiences of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus with poor glycaemic control in Nigeria: a qualitative study

Background: Many individuals living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) struggle to maintain optimal glycaemic control. Reports from Nigeria show particularly high rates of poor glycaemic control, increasing the risk of microvascular and macrovascular complications. Little research has explored the lived experiences of individuals living with T2DM with poor glycaemic control in Nigeria, particularly in secondary healthcare settings, to guide improvements in care. Objective: This study explored the experiences of individuals living with T2DM with poor glycaemic control. Method: A qualitative research design was used. Semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted with 14 participants, aged 35 to 74 years, recruited from 3 secondary healthcare institutions in Lagos, Nigeria. Results: Four key themes were generated: (1) Beyond the T2DM diagnosis, which captures the perceptions of T2DM, the financial burden of the condition, and the onset of physical health issues associated with T2DM; (2) Psychological impact of T2DM, which highlights mental health difficulties and experiences of stigma; (3) Managing and living with T2DM, which describes the use of traditional medicine, the influence of religious beliefs and the importance of community and social networks and (4) Diabetes care at secondary healthcare institutions, which highlights patient-provider interactions and the gaps in information and education. Conclusion: The findings provide valuable insight into the lived experiences of individuals with T2DM with poor glycaemic control and underscore the importance of addressing knowledge gaps and providing psychological support as integral components of comprehensive diabetes care.